Final answer:
The statement that red blood cell-associated infectious agents cannot be identified by hematology analyzers and require blood film evaluation is true. Hematology analyzers can provide cell counts and basic measurements but cannot detect infectious agents. The correct option is a.
Step-by-step explanation:
The identification of red blood cell-associated infectious agents cannot be made by hematology analyzers and must be identified during the blood film evaluation. This statement is true. Hematology analyzers are designed to count cells and provide information on cell size and volume, among other parameters, but they cannot directly identify infectious agents such as bacteria, parasites, or viruses that may be present in red blood cells. Further identification of such infectious agents requires microscopic examination of a stained blood film, where a trained professional can visually determine the presence of these agents based on their morphological characteristics.
For instance, Plasmodium spp., which causes malaria, is identified by its distinctive appearance on red blood cells in a blood film. Similarly, bacteria like Bartonella spp. and viruses that can cause hemagglutination will not be detected by an analyzer but can be seen upon microscopic examination of a blood film.
Moreover, blood film evaluation is critical in the diagnosis of certain conditions such as hemolytic anemias, where autoantibodies against red blood cells can be found. This evaluation is indispensable to differentiate between various causes of anemia and to identify any unexpected red blood cell antibodies that might pose risks in blood transfusions, as highlighted by the importance of the antibody screening test alongside pretransfusion blood typing to detect antibodies outside the ABO or Rh systems.
Therefore, while hematology analyzers are valuable tools in a laboratory's arsenal for routine complete blood counts and initial screenings, the definitive identification of infectious agents or irregular antibodies associated with red blood cells requires a manual microscopic examination of a blood film performed by skilled laboratory personnel.